Black Art Museum in Chiang Rai - The Black Temple

Visiting the Black Temple in Chiang Rai is a thought-provoking and awe-inspiring experience. Opinions about this place vary greatly among visitors. If you plan to visit the Black, White, and Blue Temples all in one day, you might find the schedule a bit tight. However, I had a more relaxed itinerary and spent most of the day exploring this site. The Black House, also known as Baan Dam (Chiang Rai Black Temple), is referred to as the "Black House Art Museum." It was constructed over 40 years by Chiang Rai's renowned artist Khun Thawan Duchanee. The museum features a collection of buildings, sculptures, artifacts, furniture, and more, all showcasing the artist's unique vision. The museum consists of numerous scattered small buildings, primarily in black and brown tones. It houses many peculiar structures and sculptures, with exhibits ranging from ancient hunting tools to animal specimens, bones, and fur. The atmosphere is eerie yet authentic, reflecting the artist's distinctive beliefs. The experience here is intense, evoking a sense of "fear and reality coexisting." Despite the eerie vibe, the interior feels serene, as if you're in a tranquil paradise. I strolled leisurely through the museum for quite some time, finding it peaceful. It feels more like an artistic outdoor park filled with bizarre cultural elements. Tips: - When visiting the Black Temple, please respect local customs. Avoid loud noises and refrain from taking nude photos inside the temple. - Wear comfortable shoes, as the Black Temple covers a large area and requires walking. Additionally, bring mosquito repellent to prevent insect bites. Black Temple (Baan Dam Museum, also known as the Black House) Location: 333 Moo 13 Tambon Nang Lae, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Rai, Chang Wat Chiang Rai 57100 Hours: 09:00-17:00